Genetic admixture predicts parasite intensity: evidence for increased hybrid performance in Darwin's tree finches.

ABSTRACT: Hybridization can increase adaptive potential when enhanced genetic diversity or novel genetic combinations confer a fitness advantage, such as in the evolution of anti-parasitic mechanisms. Island systems are especially susceptible to invasive parasites due to the lack of defence mechanisms that usually coevolve in long-standing host-parasite relationships. We test if host genetic admixture affects parasite numbers in a novel host-parasite association on the Galápagos Islands. Specifically, we compare the number of Philornis downsi in nests with offspring sired by Darwin's small tree finch (Camarhynchus parvulus), Darwin's medium tree finch (C. pauper) and hybrids of these two species. The number of P. downsi decreased with an increasing genetic admixture of th

SUBMITTER: Peters KJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6502384 | biostudies-literature | 2019 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature